Summer is officially here, despite the wet weather and grey skies — no complaints from me. This is the time to share about a special place known by students of Opal School as the ‘House of Summer.’ The plaque at this living sculpure of Himalayan white birch (Betula utilis var. jacquemontii) however reads ‘House for Summer.’ It’s located near the intersection of SW Fairview Blvd and SW Knights Blvd, a short walk up hill from the Hoyt Arboretum gift shop parking area.
Our family visited on a very summery Easter day in March before the foliage had emerged.
Looking up from inside:
And here we are in June, with leaves providing more shelter:
Looking up
House of Summer — I prefer to call it by this name. To me it means a place that evokes summer — inviting us in at any time, in all seasons. This is a magical place to visit, especially with children. Whether you make it over to play inside this House of Summer, I hope you’ll enjoy spending your summer under the cooling shade of your own favorite trees.
Portland Tree Tour 
Unbelievably for a Portland native, I took my first walk in the Hoyt Arboretum recently, but vowed to return regularly. This will definitely be the next thing to seek out.
Ricki, you are in for a treat — there is so much to see in the arboretum. I need to spend more time up there as well.
I have always loved Jacquemontii birches – their white bark is unsurpassed!
Indeed, it is very striking.
That’s so cool! Man, you find the best stuff.
Thanks Heather, but I can’t take credit for this one — Opal School kids introduced me to this wonderful place.